In Ireland the PPS Number ( Personal Public Service Number) or PPSN is a personal reference number that allows you to gain access to social welfare benefits and other government services in Ireland. It used to be known as the PRSI number.
A PPS number is the equivalent of the National Insurance number in the UK.
Getting a PPS number is very important and is probably the first thing you need to do when you move to Ireland.

Without a PPS number – when you move to Ireland you will not be able to get any state Benefits. It is used for Taxation purposes too. You also need a PPS number to get an Irish driving licence.

If you are taking up an offer of employment, you need a PPS number to register with the Revenue Commissioners. However, a PPS number is not needed when looking for work -and employers should not look for your PPS number when recruiting. An employer should only seek a PPS number if you are actually taking up employment with the organisation.

You cannot apply for a PPS Number before you move to Ireland. You must be already living in Ireland before getting a PPS Number. Allocation of PPS numbers is done by face-to-face interview. However, you can book an appointment for a PPS number allocation interview before you move to Ireland . You will need to should attend a PPS Number Allocation Centre in the county that you intend to live in.
If you are not Irish, you will need to produce the following documents when getting a PPS number:
a) Your passport or national identity card Or Your Immigration Card
b) Evidence of your Irish address, such as a household household utility bill ; An official letter/document
A financial statement ; Property lease or tenancy agreement ; Confirmation of address by a third party such as a hotel/hostel administrator or manager, school principal/administrator or accommodation/property owner.

Do not pay anyone to apply for a PPS number for you – it is a simple process that is free to everyone.

A PPSN application form is called a REG 1

For more information You can phone the Department of Social and Family Affairs at 1890 927999